A breast pump is a must-have device for every nursing mother. Of course, if milk is abundant and lactation is stable, it may not be necessary. But in some situations (lactostasis, inability to breastfeed), a breast pump simply cannot be done.
What is a breast pump for?
A breast pump is a device used by nursing mothers. It must be used for lactation crises. Periodically, the amount of milk decreases. You can increase its intake between feedings using a breast pump. As a result of its use, the mammary glands begin to produce milk much more intensively.
Also, a breast pump is required to prevent milk stagnation. Expressing periodically after feeding is a must. Milk can be stored in the refrigerator and then used for the next feed. With the help of a breast pump, nursing mothers usually get rid of milk stagnation. It is very easy to straighten out painful spots with this device.
And of course, it will be hard to do without a breast pump if mom suddenly gets sick. This device allows you to keep breastfeeding your baby.
The main types of breast pumps
Various breast pumps are presented on the modern market - from inexpensive to the most "sophisticated". The simplest are considered devices equipped with a "pear". Their principle of operation is based on manual squeezing of a rubber bulb, as a result of which the nipple is squeezed. Usually pear-shaped breast pumps are made by domestic manufacturers. True, for the normal expression of milk with their help, considerable efforts will have to be made.
There are also handheld devices that function like a syringe. Breast pumps of this type are equipped with two cylinders. The inner one is usually applied directly to the nipple, while the outer one moves and creates a vacuum. As a result, milk is expressed. These devices can be considered optimal for use. Typically, Avent breast pumps are supplied with spare parts, bottles and caps.
For the convenience of nursing mothers, electronic devices for expressing milk have even been created. They allow the mother to move to a minimum. Everything happens automatically. These breast pumps are powered by rechargeable batteries that need to be recharged at all times. Of course, this is not very convenient. Some moms really don't like the sound that the device makes during pumping.
Any breast pump must be sterilized before use. During the procedure, a woman should not experience painful sensations. If you feel pain, then the device was not positioned correctly. By the way, when using an electric breast pump, milk stops flowing within 6-7 minutes after the start of the procedure.
